When you first learned to knit, it probably felt awkward; Holding needles, yarn, and moving yarn around and off needles. The more you did it, the less awkward it felt. Knitting is like any new skill, it takes practice. Before you know it, you are knitting up a storm.
So it is with Double Pointed Needles (DPKs). Many people resist knitting with DPKs because it looks complicated, can appear intimidating and If you previously attempted, just like when you first learned to knit, it felt awkward. And it is. Just like any newly learned skill, the more you do it the easier it gets.
DPK’s are life savers when it comes to knitting small projects too small to fit on a circular needle. They are necessary when finishing items such as socks, hats mittens and glove fingers. If you learn to knit with DPK’s you will expand your knitting capabilities two fold.
Here are (4) tips to get you started on the road to knitting up a storm with double pointed needles.
- If you are new to DPK’s, knit with bamboo or wood needles. The yarn does not slip as easily and will stay more secure on the needles. Yarn slipping off while you are working on one of the other needles can be a common problem.
- Not only is it important to use needles the correct size, it is also important to use needles that are not too long or too short. If the needles are too long, they will always be in your way. If they are too short, the yarn will fall off at the ends of the needles you are not working on.
- When you get to the end of one needle and ready to move on to the next, pull the working yarn tight against the ending needle to keep from having a gap between each needle. Knit a couple stitches before you let up on the tension.
- Keep in mind, the beginning of the project is usually the most awkard. Once you get past a couple rows, it gets easier and smoother.
Keep practicing. Don’t be discouraged. Before you know it, you will be a Pro.
How to knit using Double Pointed Needles
Choosing the Right Needles
Off The Lamb 